Top players looking for top programs are making a business decision these days. Some aren't going to the highest bidder, but many are. Recruiting high school players is less important than it's ever been. Even if you get them in campus, they might be in the portal a year or two later. High level college football is essentially a pro league now so what really matters is on and off field coaching ability, not the ability to woo prospects.
Ten years ago, retaining a mediocre coach who was a top recruiter made sense. He'd make up with Jimmies and Joe's what he lacked in x's and o's or player development. That's no longer the case. "Recruiting" in 2025 means managing a roster with NIL.
As Kirby considers coaching changes, he needs a staff of elite on and off field coaches. Recruiting prowess is completely secondary for high level program assistant coaches. (It's more important than ever for mid-majors with small NIL funds.)
It's apparent he needs to clean house on the offensive side of the coaching staff. When he considers replacements, I hope he puts the focus on where it matters. I don't want to hear any coach hire being justified because of his great recruiting skills.
